Scottish Castles - Drummond

Scottish Castles - Drummond Castle

Drummond Castle, set in the picturesque landscape of Perthshire in Scotland, is one of the most impressive and historically significant castles in the country. Its rich history, dating back to the 15th century, and its beautiful French-Italian style gardens attract tourists and history enthusiasts from around the world. A private residence of the Drummond family, the castle is not only an important monument but also a living example of Scottish cultural heritage.

Drummond Castle was built shortly after 1487 by John Drummond, 1st Lord Drummond. The first residential-defensive tower, measuring 13.1 by 11.2 metres, stood on a rocky knoll. The tower had five storeys and was surrounded by service buildings. A stair turret provided access between the floors, and entry to the tower was via external stairs leading to the first floor.

Under the direction of Scottish architect John Mylne, a two-storey gatehouse was added to the tower in 1629-1630. In 1688, John Drummond, 4th Earl of Perth, commissioned the construction of an L-shaped mansion, which significantly enlarged the castle. Unfortunately, the mansion was repeatedly altered in the 18th and 19th centuries, losing its original character.

Drummond Castle was severely damaged during Oliver Cromwell's invasion in the 1650s and was again ruined by Hanoverian troops during the First Jacobite Rising in 1715. Another restoration took place in 1822, and in the 19th century the estate passed into the ownership of the Willoughby de Eresby family.

The residential-defensive tower, built on a rectangular plan, was the heart of the castle. On the second floor was the main hall, lit by narrow windows with stone seats. A fireplace in the east wall provided heat. The upper floors, intended for the lord's private use, were extensively rebuilt in the 19th century, making it difficult to recreate their original appearance.

The gatehouse, added in the 17th century, was an important defensive element of the castle. The lodge on the right side of the arched passage served as a ticket office and a souvenir shop. On the first floor there were residential chambers, and the Drummond family coat of arms adorned the west elevation.

The mansion, built in 1688, was repeatedly altered, losing its original character. The service buildings that once surrounded the castle on the north side were destroyed, leaving only fragments of foundations. In the 17th century a kitchen and pantries adjoined the tower, and on the first floor there were bedrooms or administrative rooms.

In 1630 John Drummond, 2nd Earl of Perth, commissioned the creation of a French-Italian style garden. The designer was John Reid, author of the first Scottish gardening manual, 'The Scots Gard’ner'. The garden is symmetrical, with a layout of terraces, fountains, and paths. At its rear is a kitchen garden and a Victorian glasshouse.

The gardens of Drummond Castle are considered some of the most beautiful in Scotland. In 1995 they were the location for many scenes in the film 'Rob Roy', starring Liam Neeson. The gardens are open to visitors from Easter until the end of October, offering unforgettable aesthetic experiences.

The estates around the castle, originally called Concraig, were granted to Sir Malcolm Drummond by Robert the Bruce, King of the Scots, for his valiant conduct at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. Sir John Drummond, 1st Lord Drummond, built the castle around 1487.

Margaret Drummond, daughter of John Drummond, was a mistress of King James IV. The relationship produced a daughter, Margaret Stewart. In 1510 Margaret Drummond was poisoned, probably as part of a plot to arrange the king's marriage to Margaret Tudor, which would have secured a union between Scotland and England.

James Drummond, 4th Earl of Perth, was created 1st Duke of Perth in 1701. The Drummond family played a key role in Scotland's history, taking part in the Jacobite uprisings. In 1853 the family regained the earldom of Perth, and Drummond descendants still live at Stobhall Castle near Perth.

Like many Scottish castles, Drummond is shrouded in numerous legends of ghosts and mysteries. One tale tells of the ghost of Margaret Drummond, who is said to haunt the castle seeking justice for her death. Other stories speak of hidden treasures and secret passages within the castle walls.

The deaths of Margaret Drummond and her sisters remain a mystery. Although there is no proof, many believe they were poisoned to enable the marriage of King James IV to Margaret Tudor. This event adds an aura of mystery and tragic history to the castle.

Drummond Castle is not open to the public, but its gardens can be visited from Easter until the end of October. The garden is open daily from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., with last admission at 5 p.m.

Drummond Castle is located about 4 kilometres southwest of Crieff in Perthshire. It is best reached by car, but there are also bus connections from nearby towns.

Drummond Castle and its gardens have inspired many artists and filmmakers. Apart from the film 'Rob Roy', the castle appears in numerous literary works and serves as the backdrop for many Scottish legends. Its picturesque setting and historic atmosphere make it an ideal place for stories of ghosts, knights and royal intrigues.